The recent fire recorded in the SEVIA unit of the Esmeraldas refinery forced a temporary suspension of its operations. This event marks the third similar incident in less than a year, reflecting the operational challenges of the most important crude oil processing plant in Ecuador.
The fire broke out in the charge pumps of the SEVIA unit, which is responsible for processing vacuum residues to produce fuel oil. According to EP Petroecuador, the emergency plan was immediately activated, and the flames were brought under control after 9:30 PM on Sunday. The combustion of the spilled material was contained without spreading and without the need for external intervention.
Operational suspension and ongoing evaluation
As a preventive measure, operations throughout the refinery were suspended while technical evaluation work is carried out. Internal safety and environmental brigades remain on-site to ensure safe conditions before an eventual restart.
This incident follows others that occurred in January and May 2025. On that last occasion, five people were treated for smoke inhalation. The frequency of these events has raised concerns about facility maintenance and the operational reliability of the infrastructure.
Operational risks at the Esmeraldas refinery
With a capacity of 110,000 barrels per day, Esmeraldas represents the country’s refining hub. Its shutdown affects the domestic supply of derivatives and increases pressure on the other two refineries in the national system.
EP Petroecuador reported that the situation is under control and reiterated that images circulating on social media show flames associated with the spilled material. The company called for information to be obtained through official channels while inspection and repair work is completed at the industrial complex.
Source and photo: EP Petroecuador